The first 16 bit CastleVania has us back in control of Simon Belmont as he, once again, wants to kill Dracula.
Despite being reboot of the original, there is still very little story, it's just an excuse to go back to basics. No more non-linearity, no more extra playable characters or hidden stages, we're back to a straight shot formula as you battle through many levels and bosses to your final confrontation with Dracula at the top of the grand staircase.
The adventure is much larger this time, and also significantly easier, while the game still doesn't pull it's punches with tough level obstacles, the control has been improved greatly. Simon can influence his jump in midair, drop through the stairs, can aim his whip in 8 directions, and even dangle his whip to deal with awkward enemies. Sub weapons are now equipped to shoulder buttons making them much easier to use, and generally enemies are less of a hassle to deal with, even bosses which fall apart so fast when you learn their patterns.
It's still a really hard game, some levels still have unfair moments and bullshit enemy placement. But it's overall a much more balanced experience... which loses points for playing it so safe.
While a huge improvement gameplay wise, it's a shame it strips back on the ideas 2 and 3 tried to implement. Just because they didn't work the first time doesn't mean they can't ever. While still a fun game, SCIV is a fun one - 7/10
Despite being reboot of the original, there is still very little story, it's just an excuse to go back to basics. No more non-linearity, no more extra playable characters or hidden stages, we're back to a straight shot formula as you battle through many levels and bosses to your final confrontation with Dracula at the top of the grand staircase.
The adventure is much larger this time, and also significantly easier, while the game still doesn't pull it's punches with tough level obstacles, the control has been improved greatly. Simon can influence his jump in midair, drop through the stairs, can aim his whip in 8 directions, and even dangle his whip to deal with awkward enemies. Sub weapons are now equipped to shoulder buttons making them much easier to use, and generally enemies are less of a hassle to deal with, even bosses which fall apart so fast when you learn their patterns.
It's still a really hard game, some levels still have unfair moments and bullshit enemy placement. But it's overall a much more balanced experience... which loses points for playing it so safe.
While a huge improvement gameplay wise, it's a shame it strips back on the ideas 2 and 3 tried to implement. Just because they didn't work the first time doesn't mean they can't ever. While still a fun game, SCIV is a fun one - 7/10